an architect-designed retreat in the foothills of the shenandoah, opening spring 2027
occasional notes from the forest, and early access when reservations open
an exquisitely designed cabin and bathhouse embraced by 23 woodland acres, where the only sounds are the crackling of embers, birdsong in the canopy, and the whisper of wind and water. every detail shaped by years spent studying the land, light, and seasons.
the doah cabin is your sanctuary for all seasons. with two sleeping areas and ample common space, it is the ideal setting for slow mornings, quiet afternoons, and long nights by the fire.
housed in a structure shaped like autumn leaves, the bathhouse invites you to drift slowly between a sauna, soaking pool, and thermal room. a few stone steps away, the creek rushes cold and clear. no reservations, no time limits, no other guests. the bathhouse, like every inch of the forest, is yours alone.
a private trail loops through the forest along the creek, passing granite formations, towering trees, and shaded meadows. each step draws you deeper into the landscape, and farther from everything else.
when darkness falls, the woods disappear into silence. the starry sky opens overhead. a night of deep sleep awaits.
materials drawn from the landscape
every structure is built from salvaged eastern red cedar gathered nearby. over time, the wood weathers gently in the mountain climate, carrying the scent of the forest inside.
locally quarried granite anchors the retreat with surfaces that stay cool in summer, and darken dramatically after rain.
sourced from the final remnants of the historic alberene quarry, soapstone appears in surfaces meant to be felt: warm benches, cool handles, and showers.
leopold banchini architect
swiss architect leopold banchini designed the structures to feel embedded in the landscape through careful siting, restraint, and the use of locally sourced materials.
render by analog1.eu
terremoto
terremoto, the los angeles landscape architecture practice, is known for landscapes deeply tied to place and season. their work favors native ecologies and long-term stewardship over ornamentation. at doah, their plantings are designed to feel like an extension of the forest.
opening in early 2027 with its first cabin and bathhouse, doah is envisioned as a gradually expanding retreat of five cabins, a shop, communal spaces, and sensory experiences shaped by the landscape.
located in madison, virginia, in the verdant foothills of the shenandoah mountains, just outside shenandoah national park and skyline drive.
open in google maps90 minutes from Washington, DC
90 minutes from Richmond
40 minutes from Charlottesville
Shenandoah National Park and Skyline Drive are nearby, with woodland trails and mountain views.
Local recommendations will be shared before your stay.
back story
after burning out at work, i built doah house as my own quiet place in the woods. sharing it with guests made me want to create more room for that: time outside, time together, and a little less to think about.
